LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas State Police Sgt. Darran Austin, 36, of Dardanelle, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant, and Sgt. Stacie Rhoads, 44, of Atkins, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant.

The promotions were among six recommended by Colonel Stan Witt, Director of the Arkansas State Police. The promotions were approved during a recent ASP Commission meeting.

Lt. Austin is a nine-year veteran of the department and most recently was assigned as a post supervisor in Highway Patrol Division, Troop J (Clarksville). Austin will assume new duties as assistant commander of Highway Patrol, Troop A (Little Rock).

Lt. Rhoads is a 15-year veteran of the department most recently assigned to the Criminal Investigation Division, Company E (Harrison). Rhoads will assume new duties a commander of CID, Company A (Little Rock).

Veteran Highway Patrol Captain Mike Foster, 53, of Harrison was promoted to the rank of major and will assume new duties as a Highway Patrol Division commander.

Major Foster has served as an Arkansas State Trooper for 23 years and most recently has been assigned as Troop Commander at State Police Highway Patrol, Troop I with headquarters at Harrison.